Mule Drive Issues

[Lucky Chow]

Guys I've got a mule drive problem. My 125 has the quick disconnect model mule drive. One of the arms that holds the pulley on right hand side of the tractor (I have my hand on it in the pic below) has worn so much that it has a great deal of movement in it. The belt will not stay on as a result. On many of the models, the rod where the pulley arms mount has a key on the ends and it can be removed so that the parts can be replaced. On mine, the rod is welded and cannot be removed. I believe it came from the factory this way. So, my question is, what are my options?

Do I need to get a new mule drive altogether? Are pulleys and pulley arms still available as new parts?

[Lucky Chow]

No ideas on this one?

[olds45512]

if you have a welder you could just grind the weld off and disassemble it, once you have it repaired you could just weld it back together.

[R Bedell]

I would grind the welds off on each end of the Mule Drive. Thus, freeing up the cross rod. Remove the rod and expose Pulley Brackets. Secure replacement brackets (used or NOS). Once you are satisfied with the brackets, then obtain a new 1/2" (or whatever size) cross rod, longer than the original. Instead of welding it back in, drill some holes on each end and use cotter pins & flat washers instead. That is the way I would handle it.

[Terry C]

If you don't want to do the grinding, you could replace the mule drive
Sponsors on top of the page will have one

[athomas]

I've removed them ,welded up the worn holes ,re-drilled them ,replaced the worn rod etc. and re installed them,works good as new !

[twoton]

Originally Posted by R Bedell

I would grind the welds off on each end of the Mule Drive. Thus, freeing up the cross rod. Remove the rod and expose Pulley Brackets. Secure replacement brackets (used or NOS). Once you are satisfied with the brackets, then obtain a new 1/2" (or whatever size) cross rod, longer than the original. Instead of welding it back in, drill some holes on each end and use cotter pins & flat washers instead. That is the way I would handle it.

X2

[Lucky Chow]

Thanks everyone! I appreciate the replies. I've started grinding the welds off to remove the old shaft. One end has been very stubborn, but I'm still working on it. Hopefully I'll get it out this week and order the new parts.

[Oak]

Looks like your going to be mowing in no time Darryl and it will be good for another 40 years. Keep us updated with lots of pics please.

[vr4Legacy]

How are you going to repair the pulley arm? Or are you replacing it?

I have the same issue with my 1200. Fortunately I have another mule drive.